About Berkeley

Berkeley College has been preparing students for successful careers since 1931. Times have changed, but our “students first” commitment hasn’t. Everything we do is designed to help students achieve professional and personal success. Berkeley College offers career-focused programs, supportive professors with real-world industry knowledge, hands-on learning through our internship program, and a variety of supplemental programs and activities.

Academics

Berkeley offers a range of degree and certificate programs to help prepare students for some of today’s most in-demand careers. Programs are developed with input from industry experts to prepare students for the professional world. Updates give students the current skills that employers require, and programs are added to reflect the professional marketplace. Programs are offered through the Larry L. Luing School of Business, the School of Professional Studies, the School of Health Studies, and the School of Graduate Studies. Undergraduate curricula are supported by the School of Liberal Arts to ensure a well-rounded education.

Admissions

Berkeley College has a rolling admissions process that is fast and easy, and help is available every step of the way. Acceptance decisions are based on more than just past performance in school—we consider potential for success as well. An Admissions advisor will help you choose a program of study, arrange a tour of the Berkeley facilities, and answer all of your questions.

Campuses

Berkeley College has campuses in New York, New Jersey, and online. While each Berkeley location has the facilities and resources to provide you with an outstanding career-focused education, each has its own “personality.” Whether you choose to study in the city, the suburbs, or online, you’ll have access to everything you’ll need. Many students choose to take classes at more than one campus or combine on-site and online classes to complete their degree.

Student and Career Services

Students come first at Berkeley College, and a variety of support is provided. Students may also participate in a range of activities that promote personal growth and development. And, a dedicated team of Career Services specialists works closely with students throughout their time at Berkeley—and beyond.

Career Outlook

Legal Studies at a Glance

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Legal Studies program can apply for such positions as legal assistants, legal analysts, researchers, or court assistants.

Education Required

Most legal assistants have a college degree. In many cases, employers prefer candidates who have at least one year of experience in a law firm or other office setting. In addition, a technical understanding of a specific legal specialty can be helpful. In some cases, employers hire college graduates with a Bachelor’s degree with no legal experience or education and train them on the job.

Typical Tasks Performed

Investigate the facts of a case

Conduct research on relevant laws, regulations, and legal articles

Organize and maintain documents in a paper or electronic filing systems

Gather and arrange evidence and other legal documents for attorney review and case preparation

Write reports to help lawyers prepare for trials

Draft correspondence and legal documents, such as contracts and mortgages

Get affidavits and other formal statements that may be used as evidence in court

Help lawyers during trials by handling exhibits, taking notes, or reviewing trial transcripts

Outlook for Employment

Employment of legal assistants is projected to grow 8 percent through 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Legal assistants are found in all types of organizations, but most work for law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.

Industries That Employed the Most Legal Assistants in 2014:

Legal services – 72%

Local government, excluding education and hospitals – 6%

Federal government – 5%

State government, excluding education and hospitals – 4%

Finance and insurance – 3%

Please note that these are national statistics and projections that might vary by location.